Al Gore took the stage at the New York University Law School early this afternoon to deliver what was billed in press releases as a "major policy address on global warming."

Major it was -- in terms of the media turnout, anyway. There were nearly a half-dozen cameras rolling and most major publications represented.

With the exception of a mention at the outset of new evidence of rapidly melting polar ice caps, this speech was all about solutions -- one of which was the promise of "flex-fuel, plug-in hybrid vehicles," which can run on gasoline, biofuels, and electricity; and a decentralized electricity grid with smaller generators located closer to points of use.

For more details on Gore's vision for climate solutions...

President Bush is preparing an astonishing U-turn on global warming,
senior Washington sources say.

After years of trying to sabotage agreements to tackle climate change
he is drawing up plans to control emissions of carbon dioxide and
rapidly boost the use of renewable energy sources.

Ed Kjaer, co-founder of the Consortium and Director of Electric Transportation, for Southern California Edison welcomes AES. "We are pleased to welcome AES to the Consortium," said Kjaer. "The global strength of AES and the example of their innovative leadership in the power industry are valuable additions to this organization and will help accelerate PHEV development and public support.